KAMPALA, Uganda —The African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO), in partnership with Fundación AISGE, the Global Audio-visual Alliance (GAVA), the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), and the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), is hosting the Fourth African Regional Seminar on Copyright and Related Rights in the Audio-visual Sector in Kampala from 10th to 11th September 2025.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, presided over the event as Guest of Honour, reaffirming the Government of Uganda’s commitment to strengthening copyright systems, supporting creators, and aligning with international obligations.
“This seminar is about awareness of copyright and related rights. Today, through ARIPO and other partners, it is our duty to make all creators aware that the laws we are creating are on their side and that when they register, they can benefit,” Hon. Mao said.
BUILDING ON REGIONAL PROGRESS
This year’s seminar follows three successful editions — Zimbabwe (2022), Zambia (2023), and Lusaka (2024). These gatherings have steadily advanced dialogue on copyright and provided practical tools for strengthening Africa’s creative economy.
Mr. David Njuguna, ARIPO’s Director of Intellectual Property, speaking on behalf of the Director General, stressed the need for collective efforts to improve national Copyright and Related Rights laws.
“This is the time to take advantage and leverage the audio-visual sector for sustainable socio-economic growth and development of our creatives and Countries,” he said.
The Kampala edition is attended by representatives from Audio-Visual Collective Management Organisations (CMOs), National Copyright Offices, policymakers, and stakeholders from ARIPO Member States, alongside Observer States Nigeria and South Africa.
ADVANCING COPYRIGHT PROTECTION AND COMPLIANCE
The core focus of the 4th Regional Seminar is promoting ratification and implementation of international copyright treaties, including:
The Kampala Protocol on Voluntary Registration of Copyright and Related Rights
• The Beijing Treaty on Audio-visual Performances
• The Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works
Registrar General Ms. Mercy K. Kainobwisho noted that Uganda’s hosting of the seminar reflects the country’s efforts to comply with international obligations.
“By working together, we can build a robust copyright ecosystem, empower creators, and unlock Africa’s creative potential. Together we can also tackle key challenges, including piracy and low awareness,” she said.
TACKLING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
Delegates are discussing a range of key issues, including:
The ARIPO Toolkit on Tariff-Setting Principles and Guidelines or audio-visual CMOs
• Regional cooperation among African CMOs
• Emerging copyright challenges in the digital era
For Uganda, the seminar is expected to deliver tangible benefits such as:
• Greater awareness among local CMOs of their obligations
• Stronger advocacy for copyright registration
• Enhanced visibility as a regional leader in copyright compliance and promotion
LOOKING AHEAD
The 4th Regional Seminar marks a crucial step toward strengthening Africa’s audio-visual industry, promoting a fair creative economy, and positioning the continent to compete globally.
By hosting this high-level dialogue, Uganda reaffirms its dedication to supporting creators, protecting intellectual property rights, and nurturing cultural industries that contribute to both economic growth and national identity.
